A bachelors degree in chemistry geology physics astronomy or a related field is required Applicants must have outstanding records in the relevant basic sciences and mathematics Qualified students may proceed directly toward the PhD although most obtain the MS degree in the process Exams GRE Types GRE Optional Letters of Recommendation 3 The general requirement for admission for a US student is a bachelors degree from a regionally accredited institution comparable in standard and content to a bachelors degree from the University of California Graduate admission through the regular process requires an overall scholastic average including any postbaccalaureate study of B 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or better or its equivalent if the letter grade system is not used. Your IELTS Academic overall band score should be at least 7.0. 7.0 is the minimum required. Your TOEFL score on the paper and pencil test must be at least 560 or at least 87 on the internet-based test. For the internet based TOEFL TOEFL iBT the following are the expected scores for each section Writing - 25 Speaking - 24 Reading - 21 Listening - 17 Your statement of purpose will be used in conjunction with your application for consideration for graduate admission and financial support Specific requirements individual majors may have 500 1000 or 1500 word limits.